Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has unveiled an internal report detailing 59 abuse allegations in Chad’s refugee camps, with 18 staff dismissed. The findings raise urgent questions about accountability, safeguarding, and the state of humanitarian aid in crisis zones. This page answers common questions readers have about the MSF investigation, the responses from authorities and NGOs, and what reforms are underway to protect refugees and staff. Scroll for immediate answers and then dive deeper with related topics below.
MSF’s internal inquiry documents 59 abuse allegations related to exploitation of both refugees and Chad-based staff, including cases involving underage girls. The report notes that many survivors were hesitant to come forward, and it highlights the complexity of accountability in crowded displacement sites where vulnerability is high and oversight can be fragmented.
Following MSF’s findings, authorities and partner NGOs are reassessing safeguarding measures, reporting channels, and staff screening processes. MSF has emphasized strengthened reporting lines and prevention programs, while external bodies are reviewing protocols, with some pledging new training and oversight to prevent abuse and improve survivor support.
The report underscores how crisis environments—marked by displacement, scale, and turnover—stretch accountability mechanisms. It shows how limited resources, complex staffing, and safety risks can hinder rigorous monitoring, while also illustrating the urgent need for robust safeguarding, transparent investigations, and survivor-centered responses.
Reforms focus on strengthening safeguarding policies, expanding confidential reporting channels, improving survivor support services, and tightening staff vetting and training. MSF and partners are also reviewing contracting and oversight to ensure accountability across all levels, from field teams to administration.
AP and other outlets’ coverage in 2024 helped trigger MSF’s internal inquiry by drawing attention to sexual exploitation in Chad’s displacement sites. This underscores how investigative journalism can catalyze humanitarian accountability and prompt reform efforts.
MSF has broadened reporting channels and reinforced protection for those who come forward. In crisis zones, confidential hotlines, anonymous reporting options, and clearly communicated safeguards are essential to reduce fear of retaliation while ensuring investigations proceed.
The organisation employs tens of thousands of workers, local and foreign, to respond to crises across several countries.